Fatal car crashes in California reportedly increased in 2015, as more Americans are taking to the roads. Reduced gas prices and a stronger economy are encouraging people to get behind the wheel again, but, as a consequence, also exposing them to risks of serious car accidents.

Factors in Car Crashes

Reckless driving: While poor weather conditions such as heavy rains and fog can contribute to car accidents, drivers who do not observe road safety rules increase their chances of colliding with other vehicles. Improper turns, lane changes without signaling, and exceeding speed limits often lead to car crashes whether on the freeway or small residential street.

Distracted driving: Increasing access to mobile devices such as smartphones has also posed serious risks of accidents, particularly among teenaged drivers who are often constantly connected to their cellphones. Whether they’re taking a call or reading a text message on their phones, taking their eyes off the road even for a few seconds can be disastrous.

Mechanical trouble: Faulty brakes and defective airbags can also cause serious auto accidents, even as safer cars are being developed and used on roads. Cars of specific makes and models have been recalled in recent months, following reports of accidents due to defective auto parts.

Drunk driving: Driving under the influence of an alcoholic beverage or drug can also be a factor in catastrophic accidents. The NHSTA reported that an estimated 10,076 people died in drunk driving accidents in 2013.

Auto Accident Injuries

Car accidents can permanently change the lives of those who are injured, as well as their families. Victims often require medical treatment for fractures, head or brain injury, spinal cord injury, and other physical injuries. The expenses and costs of the accident can extend far beyond the emergency treatment, including hospitalization, surgery, physical therapy, rehabilitation, lost time at work while recuperating, disrupted family life, and in some cases, a lifelong battle with pain and disability.

If you or a loved one is injured in a car accident, you should seek medical attention first and obtain appropriate treatment for any injury you sustain. After getting treatment, it’s important to speak to your Sherman Oaks auto accident lawyer about your accident. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be entitled to compensation and file a claim against the person responsible for your injuries.

In Los Angeles, California, the lawyers a Fox & Fox Law Corporation have over 30 years of experience helping clients even in complex personal injury claims to obtain compensation that they legally deserve. We invite you to call any of our friendly and approachable attorneys at (818) 986-4494 to evaluate your case in a free consultation.